Trade Lane Manager - Africa - Freight Forwarding
Location: Germany (flexible - can be based anywhere in Germany)
This client, a high-performing international freight forwarder with strong ties to a global logistics leader, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Trade Lane Manager to lead and expand their operations across the African continent. With a strong focus on air and ocean freight, this role offers the opportunity to shape the future of their Africa trade lane strategy and contribute to continued growth in a dynamic, global environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Trade Lane Strategy & Development
Design, implement, and optimise trade lane strategies for air. Ocean freight between Africa and global markets, ensuring alignment with the client's broader logistics objectives. - Business Development
Identify and pursue new business opportunities across key African markets, building a robust pipeline and expanding the client's customer base in sectors such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. - Customer Relationship Management
Cultivate strong relationships with clients, agents, and partners across Africa, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and long-term collaboration. - Market Intelligence
Monitor regional trends, regulatory changes, and competitive activity to inform strategic decisions and identify emerging opportunities. - Operational Excellence
Collaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless execution of freight operations, maintaining high service standards and cost efficiency. - Cross-functional Collaboration
Work closely with sales, operations, and customer service teams to deliver integrated solutions and support business growth. - Reporting & Analysis
Provide regular performance reports and insights to senior management, highlighting successes, challenges, and areas for improvement.
Qualifications & Skills
- Experience
Minimum 5 years in international freight forwarding, with a strong focus on African markets and air/ocean freight. - Network
Proven ability to build and manage relationships with clients and partners across multiple African countries. - Languages
Fluent in English and German is essential. Additional languages such as French, are an advantage. - Communication & Negotiation
Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. - Analytical Thinking
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Additional Attributes
- Adaptability
Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-changing environment with diverse cultural and regulatory landscapes. - Growth Mindset
Entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for driving innovation and continuous improvement. - Team Player
Collaborative and inclusive, with a global mindset and the ability to work across functions and geographies.
What This Client Offers
- Career Development
A clear path for progression within a globally recognised logistics group. - Dynamic Environment
A vibrant, growth-oriented culture with opportunities to make a real impact. - Competitive Package
Attractive salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive benefits. - Global Exposure
Work with international teams and clients, contributing to global trade and development.
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